Amyloid Types

This broadcast was hosted by Dr. David Seldin. He was the director of Amyloid Treatment and Research program, Boston University School of Medicine. He talks about the life threatening disease amyloidosis and various types.

Amyloidosis is a disease in which a protein called amyloid is deposited in various organs thus hindering the functioning of normal proteins. This results in organ failure which can lead a patient to a life threatening situation. This disease is divided into four major types.

First is primary amyloidosis in which plasma cells in bone marrow become abnormal and make light chains which deposits in various tissues. If this occurs, tissues and organs can be damaged severely.

Second is Familial amyloidosis in which inherited mutation occurs in genes of serum protein such as TTR. This mutation results in blood proteins to collect in various tissues and causes organ failure such as heart failure, etc.

Third type is secondary amyloidosis in which patients suffering from inflammatory diseases such as chronic infection experiences a deposit of amyloid protein in various parts of the bodies.